Former UH-CL provost, vice president honored in newly created award

UH-Clear Lake’s Office of Intercultural Student Services presented the Legacy Award to former Senior Vice President, Provost and Professor of Counseling Edward J. Hayes. This newly created Legacy Award, to be awarded annually during UH-CL’s February Black History Month, will be named in Hayes’ honor.

“Dr. Hayes’ commitment to diversity was outstanding,” said award presenter and Associate Professor of Political Science William T. Hoston. “To quote E. B. White, ‘I arise in the morning torn between a desire to enjoy the world and a desire to improve the world.’ That’s the life you lead when you are passionate about helping others.”

Joining UH-CL in 1994, Hayes served as senior vice president and provost until 2007. He then began teaching counseling classes as a faculty member.

“Dr. Hayes understands why diversity in education is so important, and he was instrumental in my success at UH-CL,” said UH-CL Black Student Association President Coretta Duplessis. “He has left a lasting legacy at UH-CL, which is why it is appropriate to name this award after him.”